Business Details
35 Years
experience
Civil Engineering Solutions for North Idaho
Clearwater Engineering has been delivering specialized civil engineering solutions in North Idaho since 1991. Our firm combines over three decades of industry experience with a client-focused approach, prioritizing clear communication and budget-conscious project execution. Led by licensed professional engineer Nicole Costello, we specialize in stormwater management, site design, and utility planning for residential, commercial, and government clients. Our expertise extends to low-impact development strategies that minimize environmental effects while ensuring regulatory compliance. With a proven track record in municipal infrastructure and private development projects, we maintain strong relationships with local jurisdictions to streamline permitting processes.Our personalized service model adapts to each client's unique needs, offering flexible contract structures that align with specific project requirements. As a small business, we emphasize hands-on support throughout every project phasefrom initial planning to construction oversight. Our commitment to technical excellence is demonstrated through successful completion of complex projects involving stormwater detention, erosion control, and utility relocations. We maintain active professional licensure in Idaho and Montana, ensuring compliance with regional engineering standards. Our legacy of quality service continues under Nicole Costello's leadership, building on the foundation established by founder Debra Van Dyk.
Services
Stormwater Management
Site Development
Utility Design
Government Projects
Construction Oversight
Erosion Control
Residential Subdivisions
Commercial Development
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- Licensed engineers with Idaho and Montana certifications
- 30+ years of North Idaho project experience
- Customized contract structures for client needs
- Specialized stormwater management expertise
- Direct collaboration with local jurisdictions
What people say
Fast, professional, great at what she does
Highly recommend
Effective project management
Strong local expertise
Reliable engineering solutions
Services
Stormwater Management
Our stormwater management services focus on sustainable drainage systems that reduce erosion and control runoff. We design detention basins, retention systems, and low-impact solutions that comply with environmental regulations. Our engineers create customized plans that address site-specific challenges while protecting downstream properties from water damage.
Site Development
We provide comprehensive site development services for residential and commercial properties. Our team handles grading plans, erosion control measures, and utility layouts that meet local jurisdiction requirements. From small-scale expansions to complete subdivision designs, we ensure efficient land use while maintaining environmental compliance throughout the development process.
Utility Design
Our utility design services cover water distribution systems, wastewater collection networks, and storm sewer infrastructure. We specialize in small public utility systems that meet regulatory standards while optimizing cost efficiency. Our designs incorporate modern engineering practices to ensure long-term system reliability and maintenance accessibility.
Government Projects
We support government agencies with infrastructure planning and development projects. Our experience includes airport master plans, roadway improvements, and municipal utility upgrades. We work closely with local authorities to ensure compliance with public works standards while delivering cost-effective solutions for community infrastructure needs.
Construction Oversight
Our construction oversight services ensure project specifications are met during implementation. We provide field observation, quality control checks, and progress reporting to maintain design integrity. Our team coordinates with contractors to resolve field issues while keeping projects on schedule and within budget parameters.
People
Nicole Costello
Owner & Lead Engineer
Licensed professional engineer with 10+ years of Idaho and Montana experience. Specializes in stormwater solutions and land development projects. Graduated from Washington State University with a B.S. in Civil Engineering.
Debra Van Dyk
Founder
Established Clearwater Engineering in 1991 as a civil engineering consulting firm in Sandpoint, Idaho. Retired in 2025 after building a reputation for quality service and technical excellence in North Idaho projects.
Questions
What engineering services do you specialize in?
We specialize in stormwater management, site development, utility design, and construction oversight for residential, commercial, and government projects in North Idaho.
Are your engineers licensed in Idaho?
Yes, our lead engineer Nicole Costello holds professional engineering licenses in both Idaho and Montana.
How do you handle project budget constraints?
We prioritize cost-effective solutions while maintaining technical excellence, with a proven track record of completing projects within budget through careful planning and resource management.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve North Idaho, including Bonner County and surrounding regions, with extensive knowledge of local regulations and environmental conditions.
Can you assist with government project requirements?
Yes, we have extensive experience working with airports, counties, cities, and state transportation departments on roadway projects and infrastructure development.
How do you ensure effective project communication?
We maintain direct collaboration with all stakeholders through regular updates and transparent communication channels throughout each project phase.
